> This leaves out the fact that there are people whose only real choice is between taking a bus and not going anywhere.

Because of financial hardship, or because of physical limitations such as a disability that makes driving and cycling impossible? (Or for some other reason?)

> And if you're studying at Cambridge University, the Computer Laboratory is waaaaay the hell out of town.

Sorry, I'm not sure what point you're trying to make here. The Computer Lab is closer to the city centre than most of the outlying villages are, and plenty of people commute in from by bike those every day, so I don't think the Lab's location is a strong argument for buses being the only practical way there, if that's what you're getting at.